It has been another summer of confusion at Newcastle as questions over the ownership rumble on. There have finally been some new signings to celebrate – but can they gel in time to take on Arsenal?

Our Betting Tips

After everything that Newcastle has gone through since the end of last season it would still not be a surprise to see them get on the score sheet on the opening day of the season. But Arsenal should still grab the three points.

Best Odds

Statistics

Arsenal have enjoyed the majority of recent fixtures between these two sides – with the Gunners winning home and away last season.

Stats

Newcastle looked odds on to be relegated last season after failing to win 10 games. But Rafa Benitez steadied the ship and guided the club to a 13th place finish by the end of the campaign.

Arsenal threw away a Champions League spot at the end of last season, losing three of their last five games to end up in fifth.

Newcastle will be hoping that new signing Joelinton will start scoring early this season. Both their top strikers from last year – Rondon and Perez – have now left the club.

No such problems at Arsenal where Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang finished joint top goal scorer in the Premier League last year – and is joined by Alexandre Lacazette and new boy Nicolas Pepe in attack.

Our Prediction for Newcastle vs Arsenal

Arsenal to win the match

Steve Bruce may prove everyone wrong and turn this Newcastle side into one that is able to push for a European spot. But it doesn’t look likely – and Arsenal should start the season off in the best way possible here.

Darren Williamson is an experienced football writer and tipster, covering everything from the Premier League to League Two. Darren also closely follows European football, cricket, and tennis and lives just outside London with his family. He counts music, food and travel among his non-sporting interests, but can’t go too long without taking in a sporting event or two.